Mental health plan in Denmark faces criticism over stalled progress and increasing waiting times

Two years ago, a long-awaited and ambitious mental health plan was passed with substantial support in the Danish Parliament. Initially described as a much-needed boost for those with mental illness, progress has largely stalled since then, according to Jes Søgaard, an emeritus professor of health economics at the University of Southern Denmark. He asserts that the mental health plan remains unimplemented and calls for an urgent task force to identify the underlying issues.

Waiting times for psychiatric consultations have increased significantly before and after the plan’s approval. Current data shows that non-urgent patients risk waiting an average of 103.6 weeks—nearly two years—before seeing a psychiatrist. This average waiting time has climbed from 23.6 weeks in 2018 to a maximum of 80 weeks last year, and newly reported figures indicate an average wait of 20 weeks for those attending initial consultations in 2023.

The shortage of psychiatrists is exacerbating the situation, as more professionals depart the public healthcare system without adequate replacements. Experts suggest it will take many years to train enough psychiatrists to meet the growing demand.

Jakob Kjellberg, a health economics professor, emphasizes that, regardless of how many plans are developed, addressing this issue will be a long-term endeavor. He insists that political initiatives are necessary to alleviate the unacceptable waiting periods faced by thousands of patients.

In response to criticism, Health Minister Sophie Løhde asserts that progress is being made, with efforts focused on training more psychiatrists and securing funding. She plans to present new proposals in the fall, but experts warn that it will take years to restore balance in mental healthcare.